Utah Desert Wedding

A + C had the most beautiful and special celebration with their families — a perfect Utah desert wedding! Like so many couples, A + C had to change their wedding plans not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES because of the pandemic. Initially they planned to get married in Muir Woods in the Bay Area, then changed their plans to a botanical garden in Southern California, and finally decided to upgrade their family vacation into the perfect wedding celebration!

What I loved most about working with A + C is that throughout all the rescheduling and having to change their plans, they always had an upbeat attitude. I love that “just roll with it” attitude, especially when it comes to things outside of your control.

After finding the most gorgeous Airbnb where everyone could stay together (just outside of Zion National Park), A + C then found a jaw-dropping place to exchange their vows. Since A + C knew they wanted to maximize their time spent together with their families on their wedding day, they decided to take their couple portraits the next day in a slot canyon right next to where they had their ceremony.

Pro Tip: When you have guests at your wedding, day-after portraits are a great way to get beautiful photos with your partner without worrying that you’re missing out on your own party. I’m a huge fan of next day portraits because it gives you more time to explore and be present with your partner.

I absolutely love C’s custom made cufflinks that were a gift from A. They’re pieces of a map from where they first met and from where they got married — so sweet! And A’s BHLDN dress is seriously gorgeous!! After seeing her dad for the first time in her wedding gown, the bride’s family took a group tequila shot (it’s tradition!) and then A was ready to see C for their first look just outside their Airbnb.

Pro Tip: Choosing the right place to stay for your wedding celebration makes a huge impact on your entire experience. Not only was A + C’s Airbnb in a beautiful location, but the house itself was well designed and fit everyone comfortably. It was also close to their ceremony location as well as Zion National Park with lots of nearby activities for their families to enjoy during their stay.

Just a short drive from their Airbnb, A + C (with the help of the bride’s mom and myself) found an amazing location for their wedding ceremony. The red hills, cactus, and the yellow fall leaves all made for a spectacular backdrop for this Utah desert wedding.

A + C made sure to take a photo with their cute dog before heading to the main house for their reception. Check out the gorgeous charcuterie spread the bride’s sister put together and the beautiful dinner table her mom decorated.

A + C shared their first dances with their families looking on, including a few family members who were able to join via video call. After some happy tears, food preparation (all coordinated by the bride’s mom) started to ramp up.

We took a few portraits during golden hour (the last bit of daylight as the sun gets low) just outside their Airbnb. The hills surrounding the property were absolutely stunning and were extra beautiful in the last rays of light of the day. We wrapped up our portraits and I encouraged A + C to head inside for some appetizers and a drink, but just a few minutes later, I popped my head outside to see that the sunset had not quite finished putting on a show for us. I brought A + C back outside for a few last portraits in front of the epic sunset.

Pro Tip: Always wait for the last of the light during a sunset — you may be rewarded with an extra gorgeous finish!

Once the sunset was officially over, the entire family was in the kitchen helping with dinner. A’s mom made the most amazing Italian feast for everyone and it was the perfect meal to share on such a special day.

I love how much quality time everyone was able to spend together — the whole day just had this amazing feel of togetherness and joy that I will never forget. Congrats A + C!

We also took the most epic day-after wedding portraits in the slot canyon in the same area where they got married!

General location: the Utah desert outside of Zion National Park
Traditional territory of: the Pueblos and Nuwuvi (Southern Paiute) Tribes
Bride’s dress: BHLDN
Groom’s suit: Groom’s Grotto